Grammatical Metaphor in English-Chinese Translation

Abstract

This paper aims to apply grammatical metaphor (GM) in systemic functional linguistics (SFL) into translation studies. From the concept of functional equivalence in terms of ideational meaning, interpersonal meaning, and textual meaning required of target text (TT) relative to source text (ST) proposed by SFL, it is necessary for the translators to manipulate respectively on the transitivity system, mood system, modality system, and theme system that embody ideational meaning, interpersonal meaning, and textual meaning. Since the same meaning can be expressed in different grammatical structures, the translators, in this process, are faced with a variety of grammatical forms, among which congruent form and metaphorical form are included. To attain the goal of translation prescribed above, the translator has to choose an accurate and appropriate structure. The article then discusses the necessity and effects of GM's application into English to Chinese translation to ensure the quality of the works translated.